Dehradun: Uttarakhand took another significant step towards strengthening the conservation of rivers, springs, and other water sources on Monday. The seventh meeting of the State-Level Executive Committee (SLEC) of the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority (SARRA) was held at the Secretariat under the chairmanship of Watershed Secretary Dilip Jawalkar, where several key proposals related to river rejuvenation, groundwater recharge, and water conservation were reviewed.
During the meeting, Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) worth nearly ₹60 crore were presented for the rejuvenation of the Garur Ganga in Bageshwar and the Western Nayar River in Pauri. The proposed projects include an investment of approximately ₹12 crore for the Garur Ganga and ₹48 crore for the Western Nayar River. Following approval by the SLEC, the proposals will be forwarded for clearance at the national level.
Officials informed the committee that under the ‘One District–One River’ initiative, one major river in each of Uttarakhand’s 13 districts is being scientifically restored. DPRs worth more than ₹120 crore have already been prepared for all 13 rivers, and implementation has commenced on several projects.
The state has also made notable progress in the digitization of water resources. Through the Bhagirath App, 4,490 water sources across Uttarakhand have been digitally mapped using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. In addition, a scientific database covering 5,775 water structures and water sources has been created.
The committee also reviewed the Spring Conservation Programme, under which 697 natural springs have been identified so far. In the first phase, a conservation and rejuvenation plan is being prepared for 54 springs of historical, religious, and cultural significance, with active participation from local communities.
A proposal to install 49 artificial groundwater recharge shafts in Haridwar at an estimated cost of ₹2.40 crore was also discussed to improve groundwater levels in the district.
Officials informed the meeting that 86 projects are currently being implemented across Uttarakhand through SARRA during the current financial year. The committee emphasized the need for stronger inter-departmental coordination to further enhance water conservation efforts.
